WIPO Young Experts Program 2026/27 in Switzerland

Applications are now open for the prestigious WIPO Young Experts Program (YEP) 2026–2027! This is a fully funded 2-year opportunity to work at the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. Open to candidates worldwide, the program offers hands-on experience in Intellectual Property (IP), innovation, and development—all while earning a monthly stipend.

If you’re a young professional passionate about global development, creativity, or intellectual property, this could be your pathway to international exposure and impact.

Program Overview

Host Country: Switzerland
Location: WIPO Headquarters, Geneva
Program Duration: 24 months
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
Application Deadline: August 14, 2025

What is the WIPO Young Experts Program (YEP)?

WIPO, a specialized agency of the United Nations, is offering a two-year immersive experience for early-career professionals to gain knowledge in the technical, legal, and strategic aspects of intellectual property. The program aims to empower young experts to become future leaders in IP and innovation, capable of driving positive economic development in their home countries and regions.

Financial Benefits

Participants in the WIPO YEP will receive:

Monthly stipend of 5,000 CHF
50% medical insurance coverage
Accident insurance
Travel expense contributions
Visa support for Switzerland
Assistance in finding accommodation

Program Objectives

Gain practical exposure to both technical and strategic IP issues.
Understand global IP systems, including patents, copyrights, trademarks, and designs.
Learn how IP supports creativity, innovation, and economic development.
Develop leadership skills and build an international professional network.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply, candidates must:

Be 35 years old or younger at the time of application.
Be available for the full 24-month program starting in February 2026.
Hold at least a university degree.
Have a minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience.
Demonstrate knowledge or experience in Intellectual Property, innovation, or creativity.
Be a citizen of any country—this program is open globally.

Program Timeline